6-Dec-23
This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier, a two-division UFC world champion, Hall of Fame fighter, and combat sports commentator. They dive into the mental and physical challenges faced by fighters, the evolution of MMA, and the impact of performance-enhancing drugs. Underlying themes revolve around the power of resilience, the dedication required for achieving greatness, and the blurred lines between sport and survival.
- The Importance of the “Monster” Within:
Cormier and Rogan discuss the necessity of channeling inner aggression for success in combat sports.
The “monster” within allows fighters to push their limits and conquer fear.
Controlling this “monster” outside the ring is crucial, lest it consumes your life.
Mike Tyson serves as a prime example of both the power and the peril of this internal drive. - The Unfamiliarity of Being on Your Back:
Cormier’s intense fear of being pinned during his wrestling career has shaped his sleeping habits.
This fear stems from the vulnerability associated with being on one’s back in a fight.
Cormier applies this aversion to his coaching, teaching his children to avoid being pinned, emphasizing the importance of constant motion.
This concept extends to MMA, highlighting the need for proactive defense and the danger of accepting a vulnerable position. - The Evolution of MMA Skill:
Cormier and Rogan discuss the exponential growth of skill and technique in MMA over time.
Modern fighters are faster, stronger, and more technically proficient than their predecessors.
The example of Chuck Liddell and his iron chin, combined with his willingness to take risks, showcases the contrast between past and present fighting styles.
Functional training, introduced by pioneers like John Hackleman, has played a significant role in this evolution. - The Controversial Role of Performance-Enhancing Drugs:
The conversation dives into the historical presence of PEDs in combat sports, particularly in Strikeforce.
Cormier reveals that testing was inconsistent during his Strikeforce career.
The contrast between PED use and the suspension of Nick Diaz for marijuana highlights the disparity in the UFC’s approach to drug testing.
The example of Alistair Overeem and his dramatic physique shift after ceasing PED use emphasizes the transformative impact of these substances. - The Risks and Realities of Weight Cutting:
Cormier describes the grueling process of weight cutting, outlining the sauna routine and IV rehydration he used.
He expresses concern over the modern trend of fighters cutting weight closer to fight day, increasing the risk of dehydration and compromising performance.
The conversation examines the argument for eliminating weight cutting entirely, highlighting the potential for creating more balanced weight classes.
Cormier emphasizes the importance of having a doctor’s supervision during weight cuts, particularly after his own kidney failure experience. - The Power of Peptides and Back Injuries:
Cormier and Rogan discuss the potential benefits of peptides for recovery and injury prevention in MMA.
Cormier shares his personal experience with back surgery and its impact on his training.
The effectiveness of DDP Yoga for recovery from pro wrestling injuries is explored.
The conversation touches upon the persistent challenge of back injuries in fighting, highlighting their potential career-ending consequences. - The Controversial Disqualification Win:
The podcast delves into the debate surrounding Aljamain Sterling’s championship victory via disqualification.
Cormier acknowledges the validity of the foul, but questions whether Sterling should have stayed down, potentially sacrificing his championship opportunity.
The conversation draws parallels to other instances where fighters have opted to remain down, such as Diego Sanchez and Anthony Smith, exploring the strategic and ethical considerations involved.
The contrast between Sterling’s decision and the potential consequences of getting up highlight the complexities of fighting in a regulated environment. - The Striking Prowess of Alex Pereira:
Cormier and Rogan dissect the incredible striking abilities of Alex Pereira, showcasing his unique style and devastating power.
Pereira’s unorthodox movements and delayed kicks make him a difficult opponent to decipher.
The impact of his leg kicks is emphasized, particularly their ability to compromise an opponent’s mobility.
Pereira’s dominance in kickboxing, even with 10-ounce gloves, highlights his exceptional power and makes his transition to MMA even more intriguing. - The Rise of Dagestani Fighters:
The conversation turns to the dominance of fighters from Dagestan in MMA, particularly their strong wrestling background.
Cormier shares his own experiences training with Hajimura Gutsalov, a renowned Dagestani wrestler.
The dedication and intensity of training in Dagestan, exemplified by Gutsalov’s relentless work ethic, are highlighted.
The influence of Sambo, a combat sport that combines striking and grappling, in preparing Dagestani fighters for MMA is discussed. - The Importance of Combat Sports for Character Development:
Cormier passionately argues that combat sports should be incorporated into school curriculum.
He believes that engaging in combat sports fosters resilience, self-confidence, and the ability to confront fear.
He suggests that it would reduce bullying and empower individuals, particularly young girls, with self-defense skills.
Cormier highlights the comfort and sense of security that comes from being able to defend oneself. - The Duality of Mike Tyson:
The podcast explores the complex duality of Mike Tyson’s personality.
Cormier recounts his own experiences with Tyson, both as a sweet, approachable individual and as a formidable, aggressive competitor.
The incident of Tyson spitting on the ground in Singapore showcases his disregard for social norms when under the influence of his “monster.”
Cormier acknowledges Tyson’s remarkable ability to fight with only one eye, showcasing his resilience and determination. - The UFC’s Dominance in the MMA Landscape:
Cormier and Rogan discuss the UFC’s unparalleled position within the MMA world, comparing it to the NFL’s dominance in football.
Despite the emergence of other promotions like Bellator and PFL, the UFC’s brand recognition and talent pool remain unrivaled.
The conversation examines the potential impact of the PFL-Bellator merger, speculating whether it could create a more formidable competitor to the UFC.
Cormier expresses hope that the merger will lead to increased pay for fighters, particularly with the rising popularity of million-dollar contracts in the PFL. - The Mystery of Alex Volkonowski’s Resilience:
The conversation turns to Alex Volkonowski’s decision to accept a fight against Ilya Toporya on short notice.
Cormier raises concerns about Volkonowski’s potential vulnerability after his knockout loss to Islam Makhachev.
He questions whether Volkonowski’s quick return to fighting could have detrimental effects on his performance.
Cormier acknowledges Volkonowski’s exceptional talent but emphasizes the importance of a full training camp before facing such a formidable opponent. - The Exceptional Power of Jamal Hill:
The podcast highlights Jamal Hill’s knockout power and unorthodox fighting style.
Cormier expresses anticipation for Hill’s upcoming fight against Alex Volkonowski, noting Hill’s ability to find chins and deliver devastating blows.
Hill’s impressive performance against Glover Teixeira, showcasing his striking prowess, is discussed.
Hill’s unique movement patterns and power make him a dangerous opponent for any fighter, especially those who rely heavily on striking. - The Phenomenon of Aaron Rodgers’ Recovery:
The conversation concludes with a discussion of Aaron Rodgers’ remarkable recovery from an Achilles injury.
Cormier expresses disbelief at Rodgers’ ability to return to playing football after just 11 weeks.
The conversation explores the possibility of peptides playing a role in Rodgers’ speedy recovery.
The conversation highlights the advancements in modern medicine and their potential impact on athletic recovery.
5 Memorable Quotes:
- “In order to be a world champion in any type of combat sport you have to have that monster. Yeah. A legit monster inside of you that doesn’t really live in the real world because in the real world he doesn’t work.”
- “But then that’s why he would see him skirt the line, right? Yes. When he’s talking to the reporter, that is still one of the craziest things I’ve ever witnessed when he was on the stage and the reporter said something and Mike started talking about if we were in jail I would do this. Oh, that’s right. Oh my God. I’d fuck you till you love me. I’d fuck you till you love me. Joe, how do I mean what? What? Oh my God.”
- “I’m that guy in that state trying to operate in the world with normal people like us. Right. Doesn’t work. It doesn’t work. He’s in jail. Right. Crazy. It’s crazy because the thing that made him great could also run away like a wildfire and burn everything around him.”
- “The guy just understands fighting and it makes him hard to deal with. And then Joe, when you get in a clinch with this dude, he’s so tall that it’s almost like you’re holding him up if you’re the shorter fighter. He’s like draping over the top of you. And that is what fatigues you because when I’m clenching, you know, I fought there a ton like just in the clinch punch, punch, punch. I’m trying to break your posture. He doesn’t do that. He pushes you against the octagon and then he leans.”
- “You know, they have this UFC belt piece that they were using that registers how many times you get hit. Yeah. He spars the most and gets hit the least. Because he does shoulder. He fights behind his shoulder. That’s why it’s like. And his distance management is really good. He fights behind his shoulder. He manages distance while he’s popping his jab. And he’s always on, he’s pressuring you. He’s pressuring you. These guys, he’s good, man. He’s good.”